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posted on: Monday, December 29, 2014

Can you believe we're in the final days of 2014?! With New Year's Eve quickly approaching, I'm looking forward to celebrating the past year and welcoming 2015. Do you have any fun plans for the holiday? Whether you're attending a fancy soireé, hosting a party yourself, or are opting for a low-key evening with friends or family (like me!), it's always fun to dress up in a little extra glitz and glam for New Year's. Here are a few beauty favorites of mine to achieve a festive look for ringing in the new year! I should also mention two budget-friendly drugstore favorites: this mascara (I've tried many... and I can't think of any I consistently like better!) and this base, which I use in 'White' as a light under-eye concealer. For my hair, I'm loving this curling wand to get big loose curls, finished with this dry oil mist for extra shine. (I hope this helps, for those of you who asked!)

posted on: Thursday, December 18, 2014

With Christmas arriving one week from today (!), are you in the holiday spirit? I'm looking forward to making the most of these final days leading to Christmas, checking a few more fun things off my holiday to-do list ... I'm planning for ice-skating tonight :) I hope the season is starting to slow down for you and that we all get a chance to enjoy it!

posted on: Tuesday, December 16, 2014

'Tis the season for attending (and hosting!) holiday parties. Today I'm sharing five simple steps to hosting a holiday cocktail party, whether it's to celebrate Christmas or to toast to the New Year. Cheers!

1.) INVITATIONS: In today's digital age, it's nice to receive actual mail once in a while, don't you think? An invitation's form, design, and color scheme can really set the tone for a gathering. I love these black, white and gold invitations from Tiny Prints — which I think are perfect for a Christmas party, or a New Years Eve soirée!

2.) DECOR: Besides the Christmas tree and garland, a few extra touches can make my own home feel festive for a party. I always love displaying fresh flowers, specialty barware and cocktail napkins, plus my favorite candles (here and here) when guests visit. Also, a bar cart and serving trays make it easy to move around and about as hostess, so you're not stuck in the kitchen all evening :)

3.) FOOD & DRINK: Unless you're the next aspiring Ina Garten and cooking is your thing, don't stress about going over-the-top for a cocktail party. Keep it simple with a few appetizers, like a crudité platter, meats and cheeses, your favorite hot dish, and a dessert (or two). For drinks, stock up on wine and beer for guests, and consider making a signature cocktail as a special touch.

4.) MUSIC: A great music playlist is a must-have for any party, in my book. I love creating collections on Spotify for different occasions, like my Christmas playlist. (I'm partial to the classics!)

5.) ATTIRE: The holidays are the perfect time to wear pretty lace or luxe velvet, plus a little extra sparkle! I'm wearing this white lace dress here, but I also love red, black and metallic pieces this time of year. (Browse additional festive styles below!)

posted on: Monday, December 15, 2014

Today's holiday gift guide features gift ideas for a traditional Christmas. Think festive colors of red, greens and plaid, plus classic styles for her and the home. Can you believe we're nearly a week away from Christmas? (I surely can't!) These next few days will be dedicated to making most of the season. I hope you have a great week ahead!

posted on: Saturday, December 13, 2014

Happy Saturday! Here are a few things I'm loving lately on Pinterest... I'd love for you to come join me! Do you have any special plans for the weekend? In case you're doing a little holiday shopping, there's still time to take advantage of online sales and free shipping — here are a few best across the web. Enjoy!

Nordstrom: Enjoy free shipping on a wide variety of holiday gifts for him and her.

posted on: Friday, December 12, 2014

The holiday season is in full swing and I'm loving taking it all in. The neighborhoods around Chicago are feeling festive, like this beautiful street here in the Gold Coast. Since the temperatures have dropped, I've been living in warm coats, sweaters, and these over-the-knee boots (a style steal under $50!). Thanks so much for reading this week — I hope you have a wonderful Friday!